The Oita Thermal Power Plant is a key infrastructure asset in Japan's power generation grid, located on the continent of Asia. Designated as a fossil fuel electricity generation station, the facility features an installed capacity of 657 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing gas energy resources to generate bulk electricity. To ensure flexibility and reliability, the station is also configured to utilize oil as an auxiliary or secondary fuel source. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the OITA CO-OPERATIVE THERMAL POWE, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 1995, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within Japan, Oita Thermal Power Plant occupies the #43 position among all operational gas power plants. Its 657 MW capacity represents a 0.68% share of Japan's total installed gas generating capacity, which currently stands at 96,324 MW. The largest operational gas installation in Japan is the Kashima Power Station with an output of 5,660 MW, making the Oita Thermal Power Plant approximately 8.6 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.1832% of Japan's aggregate generation capacity of 358,713 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of gas power plants (modeled at 40% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 2,302,128 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in Japan consumes 3 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 767,376 homes. By utilizing traditional thermal power processes, the station delivers reliable dispatchable energy to the grid, supporting grid resilience during periods of low renewable resource availability and satisfying industrial base-load demands. The physical site of the station is located at geographic coordinates 33.2672° latitude and 131.7076° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Shin-Oita Power Plant (gas-fired, 2825 MW), the Shin-Oita Thermal Power Station (gas-fired, 2825 MW), the Shin Oita (gas-fired, 2295 MW), representing a cluster of localized power assets. This geographic placement is vital for reinforcing regional distribution infrastructure and minimizing transmission line losses across this sector of Japan.
31 years old
Japan, Asia
Location
Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Japan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Oita Thermal Power Plant: A Key Player in Japan's Energy Landscape
The Oita Thermal Power Plant, located in Oita Prefecture, Japan, is a significant contributor to the country’s energy sector with a total generation capacity of 657 megawatts (MW). Owned and operated by Oita Co-operative Thermal Power, this facility plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the region and supports the broader objectives of Japan's energy policy.
Fueling the Oita Thermal Power Plant is natural gas, which is recognized for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels. Natural gas is primarily composed of methane and burns cleaner than coal or oil, producing less carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. The utilization of gas-fired technology allows the plant to provide reliable and flexible energy production, which is particularly important in a country that has faced challenges in energy supply following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011. As Japan continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy mix, the Oita Thermal Power Plant exemplifies the shift towards cleaner energy sources.
In terms of environmental impact, the Oita Thermal Power Plant employs advanced technology to mitigate emissions and enhance efficiency. Natural gas power plants typically produce fewer greenhouse gases than coal-fired plants, contributing to Japan's commitments to reduce carbon emissions under international agreements. The plant's operations are designed to minimize environmental disturbance, although the burning of natural gas still leads to some emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2). The facility adheres to stringent regulations and standards set by Japanese authorities to ensure that its operations are as environmentally friendly as possible.
Regionally, the Oita Thermal Power Plant is strategically significant as it supports the energy needs of the Kyushu region, which faces unique challenges due to its geographic characteristics and vulnerability to natural disasters. The plant not only provides a substantial portion of the electricity consumed in the area but also enhances energy security and stability. Additionally, it plays a role in local economic development by creating jobs and supporting industries reliant on a stable energy supply.
Overall, the Oita Thermal Power Plant stands as a vital component of Japan's energy framework, representing a shift towards cleaner energy sources while addressing regional energy demands. Its capacity to generate significant power using natural gas aligns with national goals for environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
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Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects
Gas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
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